Rutten steps down as Curaçao coach as rumors swirl about Advocaat’s return ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Fred Rutten has resigned as coach of the Curaçao national team, the country’s Football Association (FFK) announced on Monday. This may pave the way for a return of his predecessor Dick Advocaat in the run-up to the World Cup.

The resignation marks a sharp turnaround for the FFK, which on Friday strongly rejected calls from players and sponsors to reinstate Advocaat.

The FFK said Rutten’s departure followed «open and constructive» discussions between the coach and federation president Gilbert Martina. The federation noted that while Rutten was not the direct subject of internal disputes, he chose to resign to protect the team’s professional environment.

“A climate should not arise that damages healthy professional relationships between players and staff,” Rutten said in a federation statement on social media. «It is wise to take a step back. Time is running out and Curaçao must move forward.»

The Lawyer, 78, led the Caribbean island to historic World Cup qualifying last November but stepped down in February to care for his daughter, who was suffering from a serious illness. Rutten was then appointed as his replacement.

Reports in the Dutch media suggested on Monday that Advocaat is now open to a return following improvements in his daughter’s health.

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The veteran coach, who would become the oldest manager in World Cup history if he travels to the tournament, has the backing of a significant section of the dressing room, according to reports.

A press conference is planned for Tuesday to provide more details about the transition.

Curaçao starts its World Cup campaign with a Group E match against Germany in Houston on June 14.

Published on May 12, 2026